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How long after a car accident can you be charged?
A couple of months ago I was involved in an at-fault accident. Luckily no one was hurt, but I’m nervous; how long after an accident can I be charged?
Chloe Jenkins · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
I’m so sorry to hear about the
accident
, but I’m glad no one was hurt. The length of time that you can be charged after an accident depends on:- the circumstances of the accident
- the damage done
- the state you were in at the time of the accident
If the prosecution rules your situation to be a misdemeanor, then your statute of limitations will likely be a year.
Conviction, in this case, could result in penalties ranging from heavy fines to incarceration, depending on state laws.
Because no one was hurt and you did not flee the scene, it is very likely that if you are charged, it will not result in incarceration. If no charges are brought within the statute of limitations (one year for misdemeanors, three years for a felony), a prosecutor loses the right to file them in the future.
Being involved in an accident can be a traumatic experience, and the last thing you should have to worry about is whether or not your car insurance can cover you. With the
Jerry
app, you can find the right collision and comprehensive coverage for your needs at a price that fits your budget. Jerry can provide you with free quotes from over 50 of the nation’s top competitive insurance companies. And if you find a plan you like, we’ll even help you switch over!Best of luck, and hopefully your own recovery from the accident goes smoothly.
View full answer
- Gregory R.
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